Terrorism and Public Health: A Balanced Approach to Strengthening Systems and Protecting People

Terrorism and Public Health: A Balanced Approach to Strengthening Systems and Protecting People

Synopsis

In a wide-ranging, timely discussion of urgent issues, this volume examines the health consequences of the recent terrorist attacks in the United States and systematically reviews information on explosives, incendiaries, and small arms, as well as biologic, chemical, nuclear, radiologic and other radioactive weapons that may be used by terrorists. In a constructive approach, the authors discuss what needs to be done to improve the public health and medical care systems in preparation for possible future terrorist attacks and threats and for addressing widespread public health problems more effectively. They also explore the origins of terrorism and discuss the civil rights and human rights issues related to government responses to terrorism. Well-written, well-organized, and up-to-date, the book should be essential reading for many health professionals, students, and others concerned with terrorism and its health consequences.

Excerpt

The terrorist attacks of September 11 and the subsequent assaults with anthrax through the postal system underscored both strengths and weaknesses in the U. S. public health system. These events created a sense of urgency to perform a long-overdue critical reassessment of our system. Terrorism and Public Health provides such an assessment. It addresses how individuals, government agencies, and health care and other organizations can be more effective in responding to and preventing future acts of terrorism while at the same time meeting other essential health needs and protecting human rights.

Given the number and variety of weapons that can be used, terrorism creates unique challenges for the public health system in planning, response, and prevention efforts. Human-made and highly unpredictable, bioterrorism in particular is a special kind of terrorism that can create unusual epidemics.

Globally, public health has brought humankind together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual support. the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio are perhaps the best examples of this spirit. Terrorism represents a different kind of force as people attempt to use infectious diseases and related agents as weapons against other people. Public health has a critical role to play in responding to terrorism and preventing or reducing its impact, but it must work in conjunction with the criminal justice system and other parts of society to be truly effective in this endeavor.